Marintec China: Interview With NME’s CEO Erlend Prytz

In the last 30 years how do you see the industry has changed? How has your company adapted to these changes?

As an organization, NME represents a broad range of industry stakeholders, so it is difficult to generalize. However, in my point of view, the industry has become increasingly digitalized and automated, especially within manufacturing, design, production and operations.  For NME, the digitalization of sales and marketing, such as increased use of social media platforms, represents a big challenge. These new marketing models have changed how companies interact with customers, suppliers and the press. For trade shows, there is a lot pf pressure to find new ways to add-value to keep pace with these changes.

In response to relatively weak demand for seaborne transportation, the Industry is also becoming more cost conscious.  And with a bleak forecast for the world economy, it is likely that this trend will continue for some time.  Both show organisers and organisations like NME must remain sensitive to costs to keep prices down. 

What major shifts have you seen in the last 30 years in terms of government policy which has either helped or hindered your business?

The industry has faced increasing strict regulations, both locally and globally. These regulations are driven by growing concerns about the environment, safety and transparency. While a burden on the industry, these regulations often result in fresh demand for ships and equipment. At the same time, other rules and regulations make it harder to do business both locally and internationally. Lobbying to ensure the best possible framework for the industry can take a toll on a small organization like ours.

Has internet technology and in particular ecommerce and IOT (internet of things) affected your company?

Absolutely. Many of our members are exploring new business models based on e.commerce, IT systems, and IOT.  For NME, it is vital that we keep pace with these developments, both when planning for trade shows and looking for ways to control costs. We see more and more of our clients pulling out of shows to reduce costs or because of the growing influence of other more affordable sales and marketing platforms.

How has your company had to evolve in terms of product offering in order to adjust to the changes in the industry?

We are constantly on the lookout for new services, products and schemes to promote our clients in their exporting activities.

What do you get excited most about when returning to Marintec China at each edition?

I am always excited to visit Shanghai!  As for the show itself, there is not much time to reflect on my experience until the last day.  If my clients are happy with the outcome of the show, then I am happy. We evaluate our performance after each show to gauge whether or not we have met our goals and look for ways to improve our member services. Also, we share suggestions submitted by our members to Marintec China to help them prepare for the next event.

Do you feel Marintec China has assisted in your company’s success over the years? If so why?

Yes. We have an excellent communication with the show team with regards to pavilion size, location, installation and dismantling etc.

How would you describe Marintec China to someone who has never visited?

The most important trade show for commercial shipping in the Far-East.

To read the interview on UBM’s website, click here!